National Candy Corn Day is celebrated every year on October 30 in the United States. Held just before Halloween, the day honors one of America’s most recognizable seasonal candies. With its distinctive yellow, orange, and white layers, candy corn has become an iconic symbol of the autumn season.
History of National Candy Corn Day
Candy corn was first created in the 1880s by George Renninger of the Wunderle Candy Company. It later became widely popular after the Goelitz Confectionery Company, now known as Jelly Belly Candy Company, began mass-producing it around the turn of the 20th century. Originally marketed as “Chicken Feed,” the candy reflected America’s strong agricultural culture at the time, and the boxes even featured a rooster on the packaging.
Early candy corn was made entirely by hand using sugar, corn syrup, fondant, and marshmallow. Workers carefully poured the colored layers one at a time to create its signature appearance. Today, modern manufacturing equipment produces candy corn on a much larger scale while preserving the classic recipe and shape that have made it a Halloween favorite for generations.
Interesting Facts About National Candy Corn Day
- Americans consume tens of millions of pounds of candy corn every year.
- The candy’s three colors are designed to resemble a kernel of corn.
- Candy corn was originally sold under the name “Chicken Feed.”
- It is one of the most recognizable Halloween candies in the United States.
- Traditional candy corn is made with sugar, corn syrup, fondant, and confectioner’s glaze.
How to Take Part in National Candy Corn Day
Celebrate National Candy Corn Day by enjoying your favorite candy corn or trying one of the many seasonal varieties available. Add candy corn to trail mix, popcorn, cookies, or baked treats, or use it to decorate Halloween desserts. You can also learn about the history of this classic candy and share it with friends and family during your Halloween celebrations.
When Is National Candy Corn Day in 2026?
National Candy Corn Day is observed on October 30 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Friday | October | 30 | 2026 |
| Saturday | October | 30 | 2027 |
| Monday | October | 30 | 2028 |
| Tuesday | October | 30 | 2029 |


